Andalusia Regional Hospital - The Childrens Advocacy Center

What is it?

The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) provides a child-friendly environment where families can go in cases of suspected abuse. The CAC is capable of performing a forensic interview by trained personnel, while law enforcement, district attorneys and other pertinent parties can view from a separate room via closed-circuit TV. Andalusia Regional Hospital donated the space for the CAC, and renovations were completed by the City of Andalusia.

Who is it for?

Area children in cases of suspected abuse.

Why do they do it?

Prior to having locally trained staff at Andalusia Regional Hospital, children who were allegedly abused had to leave the area to be medically examined, creating a significant hardship for the child and parents/caregivers.

Impact

Since opening in April, the CAC has served 26 children, with 38 forensic interviews completed. Plans over the next fiscal year include expansion of services to include counseling for children served by the CAC, family advocate services and prevention programs.

Contact: Patty Ashworth
Director, Physician Services
Telephone: 334-428-7001
Email: patty.ashworth@lpnt.net